Gorges du Fier

The Fier cut a slot through limestone that in places narrows to about a metre across while the walls rise more than sixty metres, and in 1869 a wooden gallery was bolted into the rock so people could walk through it; the present metal walkway runs about two hundred and fifty metres at around twenty-five metres above the water. Flood marks painted on the wall show the river reaching the gallery itself in exceptional years. Beyond the gorge the path opens into the Mer de Rochers, a chaos of eroded limestone blocks. The chateau de Montrottier stands close by with a collection assembled by a nineteenth-century traveller.

What you actually see

• The suspended walkway - a gallery bolted to the wall above the water.
• The narrows - a slot closing to about a metre between high walls.
• The flood marks - painted levels showing the river reaching the gallery.
• The Mer de Rochers - an eroded limestone chaos beyond the exit.

When to go

The gorge opens roughly mid-March to mid-October and closes in winter and after heavy rain. Spring gives the strongest flow. It is cool and damp inside even in August.

Honest expectations

The walk is short, around thirty minutes, and closes at short notice when the river rises. The walkway is narrow with metal grating underfoot, which unsettles some visitors. It is not suitable for wheels.

Nearby

Annecy lies east; Lake Bourget is southwest.